Tired of trade war trauma? Looking at cross-border statistics – what’s coming in and what’s shipping out –helps to better understand market uncertainty regarding Canadian horticultural commodities. At least that seems to be the story for Ontario asparagus and Maritime wild blueberries.
Ontario grows most of Canada’s asparagus, with Québec not too far behind and that’s more than enough to go around. In fact, historically, about 65 per cent of Ontario’s crop gets exported to the U.S.
Statistics reveal that Ontario asparagus acreage has declined in the last five years to 3,300 harvested acres, a right-sizing to match consumer demand. Thanks to the University of Guelph’s breeding efforts, their rust-resistant,
high-yielding Millennium asparagus has dominated the market in recent years. Its story points to the very real benefits of researcher and grower cooperation, and highlights the necessity for ongoing trials to deliver nextgeneration genetic improvements. Such innovative progress cannot be left to the whim of trade winds.
As news of the U.S. trade war broke, growers began to worry that tariffs might impact asparagus sales to the U.S. this spring, but as Marc Wall notes, exports to the east coast of the U.S. are booming.
“Export markets are very strong; we can’t keep up with orders going across the line. We are very thankful for the CUSMA trade deal. There is no question, American buyers want Canadian-grown products,” says Wall, chief operations officer, Sandy Shore Farms Limited, Port Burwell, Ontario.
In February 2025, year-on-year Canadian imports of
fresh and chilled asparagus had decreased by 12.8 per cent according to the Observatory of Economic Complexity (www.oec.world) This was the result of lower imports from Mexico (down C$1.6M or 13.6%), United States (down C$50.9K or 42.9%). The reasons behind these declines are varied but what can be said with certainty is that the Canadian marketplace is primed and hungry for this year’s crop of the first field vegetable to be harvested each spring.
Welsh Bros., a familiar presence at the Ontario Food Terminal, sell 50 acres of Scotland, Ontario asparagus at the wholesale market.
“I’m optimistic about the 2025 crop as long as no tariffs come into play,” says Charles Welsh. “We have good consumer support for the first spring crop.
Continued on page 3
Humberto Morales Acosta is one of dozens of temporary foreign workers who is harvesting asparagus at Sandy Shore Farms, Port Burwell, Ontario. The highly anticipated spring crop is welcomed in the Ontario marketplace, replacing imports from Peru, Mexico and the U.S. Photos by Jeff Tribe.
AT PRESS TIME…
BC Tree Fruits to operate under new leadership
British Columbia’s Supreme Court approved on May 16, 2025 the purchase of the remaining South Okanagan assets of BC Tree Fruits by Wildstone Capital Ltd. The $22.75 million transaction includes the former packinghouse in Oliver, properties in Summerland and Keremeos as well as remaining equipment, inventory and intellectual property, including branding and trademarks.
Wildstone, is a family-owned Penticton-based corporation, which is strategically partnered with a local investor group and Algoma Orchards, Canada’s largest independent apple grower. Under Algoma’s leadership, the Oliver packing plant will soon be re-started to accept local fruit. In addition to re-starting the Oliver plant, the partners will operate the receiving facilities in Summerland and Keremeos. This marks a significant milestone for growers and the agricultural community across the Okanagan Valley and the province at large.
“Acquiring BC Tree Fruits is a milestone we’re incredibly proud of - not just as a business decision, but as a commitment to the farmers and communities who have shaped BC’s fruit industry for generations,” says Mark Melissen, president and CEO, Wildstone Group of Companies.
“With Algoma Orchards and the Kemp family as our operational partner, we’re investing in a stronger, more resilient future for
BC-grown fruit.”
“This is an incredibly exciting chapter for our business and for BC growers,” says Kirk Kemp, president, Algoma Orchards. “I’ve been growing apples for 50 years, and it’s an honour to help restore strength and stability for farming families in the Okanagan, many of whom faced uncertainty when BC Tree Fruits announced it would be winding down.”
“BC Tree Fruits has a storied legacy in Western Canada. While it’s seen challenges in recent years, we believe we’re bringing the right formula for a strong comeback - one that has already proven successful at Algoma Orchards: an unwavering focus on grower partnerships, best-inclass quality, unbeatable taste, and constant innovation. This is what excites our retail partners— and ultimately, consumers.”
Importantly, the BC Tree Fruits name will remain, preserving its deep-rooted brand equity and significance across Western Canada. The transaction
is expected to close May 30, 2025.
For those not familiar with Algoma Orchards, it’s a proud fourth-generation farm based in Newcastle, Ontario, Algoma Orchards is the nation’s largest independent apple grower, the leading producer of organic apples, and the largest fresh cider supplier in Canada. Its expansion into the Okanagan signals a long-term commitment to revitalizing the BC fruit industry and ensuring a bright, sustainable future for generations of growers to come.
For its part, the Wildstone Group is a family-owned group of companies, headquartered in Penticton, BC with operations in construction, real estate development, ready-mix concrete and environmental services.
Source: Algoma Orchards May 16, 2025 news release
NEWSMAKERS
On May 13, the federal Liberal government appointed Prince Edward Island MP Heath MacDonald (Malpeque) to the role of minister of agriculture and agri-food. Before his election to the riding in 2021, replacing long-serving MP Wayne Easter, the 59-year-old served as PEI’s minister of finance as well as minister of economic development and tourism. As a resident of Cornwall, he will be familiar with the economic heft of the potato industry.
Welcome to Stéphanie Blondin who has joined The Office of Grocery Sector Code of Conduct as policy and regulatory affairs specialist. She brings more than two decades of experience in public policy, regulatory affairs, and economic development. She joins Karen Proud, president and adjudicator. They can be contacted at the Ottawa office at info@canadacode.org.
The British Columbia Fruit Growers’ Association welcomes Adrian Arts, registered professional agrologist, as its new executive director, effective May 22. A seasoned agricultural leader and Summerland orchardist, Arts brings more than a decade of experience in the tree fruit sector, spanning government policy, hands-on farm operations, and strategic industry leadership. Most recently, he served as regional manager for the Southern Interior with the B.C. Ministry of Agriculture and Food, where he played a pivotal role in securing more than $100 million in new investments for the province’s agricultural sector. He has held key positions on provincial and regional committees, including the Climate Action Initiative, the New Tree Fruit Varieties Development Council, the BC Institute of Agrologists and the Water Stewardship Council of the Okanagan Basin Water Board.
Empire Company Ltd. (Sobeys) chief executive Michael Medline plans to retire in May 2026. The Stellarton, NS-based food and pharmacy retailer is considered number two in grocery sales after Loblaw Co., followed by Metro, Walmart and Costco. Medline, the former CEO of Canadian Tire, assumed the role of president and CEO of Empire and Sobeys Inc. in 2017.
Dr. Sylvain Charlebois, @TheFoodProfessor, will be joining Texas A & M University on August 1 as director of graduate programs in agribusiness. He will continue to be a full professor at Dalhousie University and affiliated with the Agri-Food Analytics Lab.
Manitoba MP (Lisgar-Marquette) and former federal agriculture minister Charlie Mayer, 89, passed on April 29. He grew grain, potatoes and beef cattle near Carberry, Manitoba. During his tenure as ag minister, he noted the productivity of his riding, including vegetables.
Grimard, P. Tech marie-pierre.grimard@norseco.com 450 261-7468 Western Montérégie Marie-Hélène Monchamp marie-helene.monchamp@norseco.com 514 968-2906 North Shore of Montreal Isabelle Dubé, Agr. isabelle.dube@norseco.com 514 295-7202 Central and Eastern Quebec Stéphanie Gosselin, Agr. stephanie.gosselin@norseco.com 418 254-1469 Central & Eastern Québec Yves Thibault, Agr. yves.thibault@norseco.com 418 660-1498
The 2025 World Food Prize Laureate is Dr. Mariangela Hungria, a Brazilian microbiologist from São Paulo. She has developed dozens of biological seed and soil treatments that help crops source nutrients through soil bacteria, significantly increasing yields of major crops while also reducing the need for synthetic fertilizer. Her products are estimated to have been used across more than 40 million hectares in Brazil, saving farmers up to US$40 billion a year in input costs while avoiding more than 180 million metric tons of CO2 equivalent emissions per year.
Condolences to the family of Bert Andrews, 82, who passed on May 12. Along with his wife Lauraine, they started Andrews’ Scenic Acres, north of Milton, Ontario in 1980. He was inducted into the Ontario Agricultural Hall of Fame in 2024, recognized as one of the most diversified fruit and vegetable growers in Ontario who nurtured a much-loved agri-tourism destination. The farm produced 20-plus different crops including pick-your-own produce along with an on-farm market and bakery. In 1999, they added the Scotch Block Winery to produce fruit wines and ciders from their own strawberries, blueberries, raspberries, and currants.
Adrian Arts
Heath MacDonald
Border troubles? Look beyond the headlines
Continued from page 1
Maritime wild blueberries
Asparagus growers aren’t the only ones heavy on cross-border trade. Statistics for the Maritime wild blueberry sector tell a similar story. For Benny Nabuurs, a 35season veteran farming near Cardigan and the president of the PEI Wild Blueberry Growers, U.S. trade is doubly uncertain. First, from the ongoing threat of tariffs, and second, with worries that the blueberry marketplace can change between breakfast and dinner.
“Fifty per cent of our production is exported to the U.S.,” explains Nabuurs. In 2023, the most recent reporting year available, Statistics Canada showed the U.S. to be the most popular export market for Maritimes and Québec wild blueberries with $168 million shipped cross border. Until now, the three largest processors have enjoyed the benefits of unhindered trade while using multiple plants in the Maritimes and Maine.
Combined, the companies operate six freezing and packaging processing plants in the Maritimes and three in Maine. East Coast Wild Blueberries is located in Glenholme, NS. Jasper Wyman & Sons is headquartered in Morell, PEI. Oxford Frozen Foods is headquartered in Oxford, NS with additional plants in Parrsboro, NS, BoisGagnon, NB and St-Isadore, NB. Oxford’s U.S. plants in Machias and Cherryfield and a Wyman plant also located in Cherryfield, highlight the borderless integration within the industry. Wild blueberries move back and forth across the Maine border based solely on harvesting window and plant capacity considerations.
An industry glitch that puts wild blueberry growers at additional risk is that, currently, the processing companies unilaterally dictate prices at the end of each harvest. It’s a decision that comes long after growers have already invested the two years of inputs required to bring their fruit to market. These inputs include fertilizer, crop protection products, mowing, labour and machine harvesting. For Nabuurs specifically, this meant not receiving 2024 crop pricing notice until November 1 of last year.
“If we don’t like the price, there’s nowhere else to ship our product,” says Nabuurs. “There’s an imbalance of power.”
Independent of the arrival of the trade dispute, the PEI Wild Blueberry Association began a comprehensive cost-of-production study which was partly funded by the provincial agriculture department. Their primary need
was data to support grower claims that existing crop insurance coverage was inadequate. Additionally though, four years of declining prices that took the industry from $1/pound to 42 cents/pound underlined an urgent need for factual arguments to advance price negotiations with processors. Based on an average yield of 3200 pounds/acre, growers need 61 cents/pound just to break even today.
On the other side, processors produce about 30 per cent of their wild blueberry needs on land that they own, so current production costs are well known to them. The study’s results may not have come as a surprise but did add considerable weight to discussions aimed at improving the growers’ bottom line.
A closer look at Maine’s stake in this industry shows that ongoing crop sustainability is being questioned as both droughts and flooding have been taking a toll. In 2024, USDA provided $15 million to research the economics of irrigation and mulching. Aside from nominal production in Michigan’s upper peninsula, Maine produces the wild blueberries currently being grown in the United States. This fact should not be overlooked considering the heavy U.S. reliance on Canadian-grown wild blueberries to meet existing pie filling and bakery ingredient processing needs south of the border.
Not surprising then that delayed investment and contingency budgeting are adding to horticulture market and pricing uncertainty. To many it appears there’s no end in sight on either side of the border.
According to Thomas Barkin, president of the Richmond Federal Reserve, “With all this change, a dense fog has fallen.
Source: Statistics Canada
It’s not an everyday ‘forecasting is hard’ type of fog. It’s a ‘zero visibility, pull over and turn on your hazards’ type of fog.”
But what about the facts?
A need to trade
Although asparagus and wild blueberries may be only two of our many horticulture commodities that engage in cross-border trade, they are strong examples of real American and Canadian trade needs. They represent two sets of partners
who have willingly come to rely on interdependent relationships, involving growers, processors, and retailers. So, the facts say there will be trade. Let it be free trade.
The Grower is “Digging Deeper” with Benny Nabuurs, president of Prince Edward Island Wild Blueberry Growers. He describes the interdependent relationship between Maritime and Maine processing plants. And the worries that come for a crop
that’s being grown below the cost of production. This podcast is sponsored by Cohort Wholesale.
Source: Asparagus Farmers of Ontario
Ontario asparagus: Harvested area, 2020 -2024
Benny Nabuurs, third from left, and family, Cardigan, PEI.
CROSS COUNTRY DIGEST
BRITISH COLUMBIA
BC’s tree fruit and grape sectors rebound
After five years of hardship marked by pandemics, heat domes, deep freezes, and trade disruptions, British Columbia’s tree fruit and wine grape sectors are showing signs of renewaland remarkable resilience. From promising early crop signs to successful collaborative projects and expanding global interest in Canadian produce, growers and industry leaders are embracing 2025 with renewed optimism and purpose.
“This season just feels different,” says Walter Makepeace, owner of Makepeace Organic Farms and member of the Cross-Commodity Advisory Council. “You can see the health in the vines and the blossoms. It’s a welcome shift from the struggle of past years.”
Signs of recovery are visible across the province. The cherry crop is strong, export programs are in process to markets including China, Japan, Korea, and the EU, and the apple crop sold out two months earlyunderscoring high demand for Canadian-grown produce. Domestic campaigns such as Canadian Cherry Month are ramping up, while retailers across Eastern Canada are placing
BRITISH COLUMBIA
strategic orders to prioritize homegrown fruit in light of ongoing trade tensions with the United States.
“Canadian consumers are showing incredible support for local,” said Sukhpaul Bal, chair of the BC Cherry Association.
“There’s a real sense of pride in choosing Canadian-grown, and it’s translating into strong demand from coast to coast.”
Amid these market shifts, industry collaboration is hitting new heights. The CrossCommodity Leadership Support Project (CCLSP) - a pilot initiative bringing together tree fruit and wine grape organizations - is helping the sector make progress on shared goals. In just over a year, the project has launched nine joint initiatives, secured more than $900,000 in project funding, and brought more than 50 organizations together through committees, events, and extension work.
“These are long-considered projects that have been identified as important for the long-term growth of our industries,” said Tyrion Miskell of the BC Grapegrowers’ Association. “But no single group had the time or money to get them off the ground
- until now.”
One of the most celebrated efforts has been the agriculture bus tours, designed to bridge the gap between farmers and local governments. More than 90 people participated in two tours held in Lake Country and Penticton, with elected officials, staff, and growers sharing candid stories and building relationships on the farm.
“Many left with new ideas for collaboration and a greater appreciation for the realities of food production,” said Shelby Austen, CCLSP’s administration and communications manager.
Projects are also breaking new ground in innovation and knowledge-sharing. Work is underway to expand the BC Decision Aid System to include wine grapes, and new collaborations with the BC Agricultural Climate Action Research Network will help translate current research into digestible briefs for producers. Alongside efforts to develop domestic labour strategies, support access to global Club varieties, and pilot clean plant material imports without fumigation, BC producers are investing in the tools and
expertise needed to remain competitive in an increasingly complex market.
“Our progress shows what’s possible when we work together,” said Kellie Garcia, director for CCLSP. “Even with limited capacity, we’re solving problems and creating momentum. It’s encouraging to see so many people step forward to support the sector and each other.”
While challenges remainlabour shortages, policy misalignment, and climate volatility among them - the tone across the sector is changing. With the world watching how Canada responds to global disruptions, BC’s agriculture
BC fruit growers to receive $5M for climate resiliency fund
Funding of $5 million has been allocated to the Tree Fruit Climate Resiliency fund, aimed at
supporting British Columbia’s tree fruit growers in adapting to evolving climate conditions. The
fund has facilitated the acquisition of various protective equipment, including 52 wind
community is reminding the public why buying Canadian isn’t just the right choice - it’s a resilient one.
As Beth Cavers from the BC Cherry Association put it, “We’ve weathered some incredibly tough years. But this moment feels like a turning point.”
The cross-commodity project is funded by the Government of British Columbia through programs and initiatives delivered by the Investment Agriculture Foundation of BC.
For more information, visit: www.crosscommodity.org
Source: Cross-Commodity Leadership Support Project May 7, 2025 news
machines, 10 energy-efficient heaters, two hail nettings, one shade/heat protection netting, one evaporative-cooling system, and a project for a freeze chamber to assess bud hardiness.
According to a media release, the investments are distributed among different fruit sectors: 49 projects for cherry growers, nine for apple and pear growers, and nine for other stone-fruit growers. The majority of these projects, 64 in total, are located in the Okanagan region, with an additional three in the Kootenays.
The initiative is designed to assist growers in acquiring necessary equipment and infrastructure following several years of adverse weather impacting peach, pear, plum, cherry and apple production. Administered by MNP, the program aims to bolster nearly
360 hectares of orchards, mitigating the effects of extreme weather on the tree-fruit industry. The completion of these projects is anticipated by March 2027. Sukhpaul Bal, president of the B.C. Cherry Association, remarked, “The B.C. Cherry Association was very pleased to see the high uptake by industry in this program. After five consecutive years of extreme climate events, we needed to take a proactive approach.”
The program’s development involved collaboration with the B.C. Fruit Growers’ Association and the B.C. Cherry Association, reflecting governmental efforts to support the sector through climatic challenges.
Source: BC Government April 24, 2025 news release
CROSS COUNTRY DIGEST
NEW BRUNSWICK
Apple grower invests in solar energy
KAREN DAVIDSON
When Samuel Bourgeois analyzed his energy bill for his 110 acres of apples, a packing shed, controlled atmosphere storages and cidery several years ago, he was shocked by the amount. The third-generation farmer, owner of Belliveau Verger-Orchard near Memramcook, New Brunswick, decided to take control of these variable costs.
With the assistance of a provincial grant, he invested in 50-kw Smart Energy solar panels.
metering. After that, owners earn credits towards future bills.
“With government support of 30 per cent, the project has a payback of five to six years. But I’m already maxed out on the program. There’s no scale here.”
Undeterred, Bourgeois is thinking like an orchardist for the long term. He’s getting a quote to double the solar panels in summer 2025. Even under cloudy skies, he says some power is always being generated.
Robin Turner, marketing coordinator for the Smart Energy Company says that their groundmounted solar systems are made
2016 with a vision to offer a solar system that could withstand the snow, ice storms, fog, wind and rain of Canadian climates. Hence the name, NOREASTER. Mark, the engineer by trade, decided on structural aluminum for the modular, solar energy system. It is designed for net metering, not for selling to the grid. The company offers turn-key installation or there’s an option for a DIY kit that your own home crew can build. Simply identify a south-facing location. The NOREASTER systems come pre-engineered with a 35° pitch for optimal solar
SMARTER FIELDS, GREATER YIELDS.
BCCAI helps B.C. farmers and agri-businesses adopt innovation, access funding, and grow stronger. Since 2022, we’ve co-invested $17M+, launched 23 new products, and trained 1,600+ people — driving a more sustainable, pro昀table future for agriculture.
Samuel Bourgeois, Memramcook, New Brunswick
Blue Roof Distillers, Malden, New Brunswick
GREENHOUSE GROWER
Tobacco streak virus is appearing in greenhouse cucumbers more frequently
CAIO CORREA
As greenhouse growers become more proactive in testing their plants for pathogens, more virus detections are showing up in the reports. This can be concerning, especially after seeing devastating outbreaks of Tomato Brown Rugose Fruit Virus (ToBRFV) in the last few years, which caused 70 per cent crop losses in some greenhouses.
Not every virus infection will necessarily lead to a major outbreak like ToBRFV, but knowing which ones are circulating in the crops and how they spread can help prevent economic losses.
Insect-vectored viruses are among the most common in greenhouses. Some of these viruses and their vectors include:
But a particular virus seems to be showing up more frequently in greenhouses, specifically in cucumbers: the Tobacco Streak Virus (TSV). Ontario growers haven’t reported any notable losses yet, but there is a history of major outbreaks in other crops and countries.
What is Tobacco Streak Virus (TSV)?
Tobacco Streak Virus (TSV) is a plant pathogenic virus of the family Bromoviridae. It was originally identified in
tobacco, but it can infect more than 200 plant species. Among crops, cucurbits, legumes, oil seeds, cotton and cranberries are listed as common hosts, but it can probably infect any greenhouse crop.
How does TSV spread?
TSV can be transmitted through seed and mechanical damage, but it is primarily spread by the movement of infected pollen by thrips. Weeds are also involved in the cycle, both a host for the virus as well as a reservoir for thrips. Though TSV has not been studied in greenhouses, it is safe to assume that the movement of workers, machinery and plant material could also transmit infected pollen and spread the disease.
And one strange observation we’ve made in recent years, are populations of the bean leaf beetle (Cerotoma trifurcata) that appeared in a cucumber greenhouse that happened to have plants infected with TSV. Why is this so strange, you ask? Because bean leaf beetles are commonly found feeding on legumes (like soybeans) not cucurbits (like cucumbers)! Bean leaf beetles are also known to vector viruses within soybean crops, such as the bean pod mottle virus (BPMV). With all this, it’s probably safe to ask this question: could bean leaf beetles be vectoring TSV?
Side note: Look for signs of defoliation of the leaves (similar to looper damage), take a look at your sticky cards and inspect the plants for small beetles with the following adult features:
• Up to 5 mm in length
• Varies in colour from deep red to pale yellow or tan
• May have from 0 to 6 spots on elytra (hard hind-wings)
• Inverted black triangle behind the scutellum (looks like their neck) (Fig. 1)
For the complete article, including monitoring and prevention tips, visit: https://ongreenhousevegetables.ca/
Caio Correa is pathologist – horticulture (A), OMAFA with input from Cara McCreary, greenhouse vegetable IPM specialist, OMAFA
VegPro International opens new 5.2 hectare greenhouse
VegPro International has officially inaugurated its new 5.2hectare Vermax glass greenhouse in Sherrington, Québec—a project delivered in partnership with Harnois Greenhouses.
This semi-enclosed greenhouse is designed to produce leafy greens year-round, ensuring that Québec-grown salad can now be enjoyed every season. The new facility is part of a broader $135 million investment, reflecting VegPro’s commitment to food autonomy, technological innovation, and sustainability.
Going all-in, VegPro has implemented advanced systems for rain and snowwater collection, closed-loop water
recirculation, and energy optimization. As a result, the greenhouse will use up to 90% less water than conventional field-grown lettuce, an achievement that is especially relevant in today’s context of growing global water concerns.
And it’s not just the infrastructure that’s innovative— VegPro is also introducing a new, crunchier lettuce variety to meet evolving consumer tastes.
“This project is a testament to VegPro International’s confidence in Harnois Greenhouses,” said Patrice Harnois, president of Harnois.
“We’re proud to have delivered a state-of-the-art facility that
showcases Canadian innovation and engineering. With our partner Growa, we’ve set a new benchmark for greenhouse performance and energy efficiency in North America.”
Designed with carbon neutrality in mind, the facility integrates Harnois’ patented technologies to reduce greenhouse gas emissions by nearly 2,000 tonnes annually while significantly cutting energy costs. This project proves that local Québec businesses can achieve world-class outcomes when working together.
Source: VegPro May 2, 2025 news release
Greenhouse produce rose to $2.7 billion in 2024 sales
Statistics Canada reports that in 2024, greenhouse produce accounted for $2.7 billion in sales, up 8.5 per cent.
Canada's greenhouse area for fruits and vegetables expanded by nearly 1 million square metres to reach 23.4 million square metres in 2024. Nationally, 70 per cent of greenhouse area was used for fruit and vegetable cultivation while the remainder was devoted to ornamentals.
Together, tomatoes (31.6%), peppers (30.3%) and cucumbers (29.6%) accounted for the majority of greenhouse-grown fruits and vegetables in 2024. These top three commodities remained dominant, despite
growth in strawberry (+8.1%) and lettuce (+8.0%) areas.
Sales of tomatoes, peppers and cucumbers increased by 8.5 per cent to reach $2.5 billion in 2024. Tomatoes, peppers and cucumbers accounted for 91.9% of the total farm-gate value of all greenhouse fruits and vegetables, which reached $2.7 billion.
Greenhouse operating expenses increased by 4.3 per cent to $4.0 billion in 2024. Higher expenditures on electricity (+8.3%) and plant materials (+8.0%) were the main drivers.
Source: Statistics Canada April 26, 2024 news release
Fig. 1. Bean leaf beetle colour and spot variations. Top row photo credit: Cara McCreary. Bottom row photo credit: Dave Cheung.
GREENHOUSE GROWER
RDAR grows partnership with Whole Leaf to enhance Canadian food security
Results Driven Agricultural Research (RDAR) has invested $229,000 to further investigate and develop water management strategies that reduce fungal root rot in leafy greens cultivated hydroponically by Lethbridge-based greenhouse grower Whole Leaf.
Cleaning the greenhouse irrigation system required a lengthy shutdown of the entire operation. Realizing this disruption was far from ideal, Whole Leaf managers sought a solution that would enable cleaning during regular operations. Whole Leaf identified that ozone, as an oxidizing agent, could potentially prevent biofilm build-up within the irrigation system during normal use and thereby avoid costly stoppages.
Whole Leaf is now furthering its research into discovering alternatives to traditional fungicides by optimizing ozone disinfection for recirculating water and using beneficial microorganisms to promote a healthy root system within plants grown in Controlled Environment Agriculture (CEA) systems.
CEA operations promote water conservation and enhance food security by
growing produce locally. These indoor environments conserve substantial amounts of water: only plants consume water, there is minimal evaporation loss, and water is recirculated through irrigation systems. However, waterborne fungal pathogens pose a significant threat to the broader adoption of CEA, and with the approved use of fungicides being limited, the innovative application of ozone to address this issue could prove to be a major breakthrough.
Colin Chapdelaine, president, Whole Leaf, said: “At Whole Leaf, we’re committed to driving sustainable innovation in greenhouse agriculture, and we’re proud to partner with RDAR and the Government of Alberta on this important project. Our focus is on enhancing root and plant health through advanced biological and water treatment strategies that improve system performance and resilience. By strengthening our ability to grow high-quality produce year-round, this work supports long-term food security in Alberta and Canada. It’s an investment in practical, scalable innovation that rein-
Alberta’s leadership in controlled environment agriculture.”
Commenting on today’s announcement, Clinton Dobson, RDAR vice president, research, said: “It is vital that viable research into food security is nurtured to further economic growth, sustainability, and keep grocery prices down. Whole Leaf is taking advantage RDAR funding to bring impactful results for all of Alberta’s CEA industry.”
Source: Results Driven Agricultural Research April 22, 2025 news release
GreenTech announces nominees for innovation and concepts
GreenTech Amsterdam will be held in the Netherlands from June 10 to 12, 2025. In advance of the show, the organizers have announced six nominees from 47 submissions in two categories: innovation and concept. According to the jury these innovations will transform the traditional greenhouses towards adaptive autonomous greenhouses. Strong collaboration, better data infrastructure, and a thriving ecosystem of suppliers, integrators, and startups will accelerate this transformation.
Egon Janssen, jury chair, explains the thinking behind the nominee picks: “This year’s applicants show great progress for the industry—circular raw materials, CO₂ reduction, smart sensors, and robotics are becoming key building blocks for adaptive, autonomous greenhouses.”
The GreenTech Innovation Award
• Phenovation - CF2GO
• Skytree – Skytree Stratus
• Ellepot A/S - Ellepot Sleeve
System
The GreenTech Concept Award
• Anorel – Ash Base Potassium Carbonate 11% & 33%
• ViewNetic – ViewNetic Platform
• Arruga AI Farming – Plant Lowering Robot (PLR)
The winners will be announced Tuesday June 10.
Source: GreenTech Amsterdam May 12, 2025 news release
forces
Skytree Stratus captures 1000kg CO/day from the ambient air to boost greenhouse growth sustainably on-site.
GREENHOUSE GROWER
Oppy and DEEP announce continued progress on Canada’s greenest greenhouse project
Marking the first anniversary of their historic partnership, Oppy and DEEP Earth Energy Production (DEEP) report progress on their greenhouse project.
The partnership is on track to deliver one of Canada’s greenest and most innovative greenhouses. The project combines DEEP’s geothermal energy expertise with Oppy’s leadership in the fresh produce sector, setting the stage for a new era in energy-efficient
greenhouse farming. The facility will integrate geothermal energy into its design and operations, using the earth’s heat to power and warm the greenhouse, reducing the need for fossil fuels and cutting
greenhouse gas emissions.
“This project represents a major step toward expanding geothermal and greenhouse industries into regions of Canada that have never seen such a model before,” said Kirsten Marcia, founder of DEEP. “It’s an exciting time for DEEP as we continue our mission to lead the way in sustainable energy and agriculture. We’re making a significant investment to start and grow an industry in Canada, and we look forward to the opportunities ahead as we bring this vision to life with Oppy.”
DEEP is also in talks with the Saskatchewan Natural Resource Centre of Excellence and First Nations communities to explore equity ownership opportunities, ensuring the greenhouse project provides a meaningful chance for First Nations to participate in and benefit from the geothermal sector.
This update follows the successful signing of a
Memorandum of Understanding (MOU) between DEEP and the Saskatchewan Natural Resource Centre of Excellence, which establishes a framework for First Nations investment in DEEP’s geothermal power project and potential greenhouse development.
“The prospect of this project’s ability to transform agriculture and serve as a model for sustainability is truly remarkable,” said Oppy’s category director of greenhouse Kevin Batt. “We are proud to partner with DEEP and look forward to continuing our work together to build Canada’s greenest greenhouse. This project reflects Oppy’s ongoing commitment to sustainability and innovation in the produce industry.”
Source: Oppy April 22, 2025 news release
How are you safeguarding the mental health of international agriculture workers?
Access to a dependable workforce is key to productivity for Ontario’s fruit and vegetable growers. Again, this year, international seasonal workers are helping to close the gap between labour demand and the domestic workforce with more than 20,000 workers arriving through the Seasonal Agriculture Program (SAWP) and the Temporary Foreign Worker (TFW) program. For the workers, employment at an Ontario farm provides significantly better economic opportunities than in their home countries, where wages are generally lower.
“It’s really a win-win situation in many ways,” says Veronique Bisaillon, health and safety consultant with Workplace Safety and Prevention Services (WSPS), “However, for these international
agriculture workers to thrive, employers need to understand the challenges they face when coming to a new country and they need to have a plan to support them,” she adds.
Common challenges
“Most of these workers do not speak English, so that alone is a significant barrier for them to overcome,” says Veronique. In addition to the language barrier, international agriculture workers usually find themselves in rural areas, which can be isolating.
“From a cultural perspective, many workers are coming from places where they have strong community ties and where they are used to frequent social interaction,” explains Bisaillon. Adapting to a new culture can
be difficult. Being far from family and friends may cause feelings of loneliness. Everyday things, such as familiar foods from home, may be difficult to find in a new country. “Even getting used to a different climate can be challenging,” says Bisaillon. “And this is all in addition to learning a new job. It can be a very stressful time,” she says. If not addressed, these factors could create a negative work experience and lead to poor mental health.
5 tips to help international workers thrive
“One of the most important things you can do to support positive mental health is treat workers fairly,” says Veronique. When you provide training, required personal protective
equipment, proper breaks, and reasonable work hours, it shows workers you value them. Bisaillon also recommends employers provide workers with their cell number or add them to a chat app and encourage contact. Here are other tips to help international workers thrive.
1. Share resources in their preferred language. When preparing to welcome international workers, find resources and information in their first language. Having a solid understanding of what the job involves and what the expectations are will help make the transition less stressful for new workers coming onboard. “I’ve worked with some farmers who took the time to learn some basic phrases in the first language of their workers,” says Bisaillon.
2. Ensure reliable internet and mobile services are available. In most cases, phone calls and video chats are the only way international workers can connect with friends and family back home. Ensuring that they have the means to do that will help them maintain positive mental health while they are away. “Consider time zones and, if possible, schedule work in a way that allows workers to chat with family at reasonable times,” recommends Bisaillon.
3. Provide comfortable housing. For workers in a new country, far from home, having a
comfortable place to live is very important. Avoid overcrowding small living spaces. Think about what workers may do outside of their work hours and provide a place that is conducive to resting and recharging. Doing so will lead to energetic, productive workers. As a best practice, house returning workers with new workers so that they can act as mentors.
4. Connect with a local cultural group. Before international workers arrive, do some research into local cultural groups. Provide contact information or arrange to have someone from the group come to speak to them. Having an outlet to stay connected to their language and culture can be very beneficial.
5. Encourage the same group to return. As much as possible, try to have the same group of people return year after year. As international workers become more familiar with the work, the surrounding area, and the people, the transition becomes easier. It gives international workers an opportunity to build relationships, which helps reduce feelings of isolation and loneliness.
Source: Workplace Safety and Prevention Services
The Oppy and DEEP project is located in southeast Saskatchewan, near the U.S. border and near Torquay. Specifically, it’s situated near the CanAm and Trans-Canada Highways for optimal distribution. The project aims to develop Canada’s first geothermal power facility.
GREENHOUSE GROWER
GreenTech Amsterdam runs June 10-12
Almost 13,000 visitors and 530 exhibitors from around the globe are expected at GreenTech Amsterdam from June 10-12.
This year’s theme – Passion -reflects the GreenTech community’s dedication to plants, people, and technology. Through storytelling and side events, the trade show aims to expand networks, deepen commitment and inspire innovation.
The latest trends and innovations can be explored at various stages of the knowledge programme, such as: Vision Stage, Data & Tech Stage, Crops/ VF Stage, Medicinal Plants Stage, Deep Dive Stage and Insight Stage.
Selection of the knowledge programme
• Vision Stage: Tuesday 10 June, 12:00 - 12:45: ‘Change, how to mitigate extreme weather events’ by Athanasios Sapounas (TNO), Jouke Campen (Wageningen University & Research) and Jorik Bremer (CRISPR)
• Vision Stage: Tuesday 10 June, 14:45 – 15:30: ‘The output of Horticulture should be the
input of hospitals…. VEGGIES!’ by Ed Smit (EatThis)
• Data & Tech Stage: Wednesday 11 June, 12:00 –12:45: ‘ New pathways for pest and disease Detection’ by Jos Ruizendaal (Wageningen University & Research), Edwin Kroon(EKYW) and moderated by Kirsten Leiss (Wageningen University & Research)
• Crops/ VF Stage: Wednesday 11 June, 12:45 - 13:30: ‘Growing Coffee in the Netherlands: A bold experiment’ by Alex van Klink (HAS green academy)
• Vision Stage: Thursday 12 June, 11:15 – 12:00: ‘Greenhouse of the Future’ by Mattias Karls (Direct Carbon), Ilias Tsafaras (Wageningen University & Research), Egon Janssen (TNO) and Henry Gordon – Smith (Agritecture)
Side events
• Tuesday 10 June: ‘GreenTech Innovation & Concept Awards 2025’. The winners in the categories Innovation and Concept will be announced during the official opening.
• Wednesday 11 June: 12:30 –15:00: ‘Power Day’: ‘Passion for
Mucci Farms hosts CEO of Loblaw Companies Limited
growth - harnessing AI in Cultivation’. Industry leaders are invited to take the next step in horticulture, where strong leadership and a clear vision is needed. A connecting afternoon, including an inspirational speech by an AI expert, round-table discussions, and lunch.
• NL Pavilion: The Dutch horticultural sector will showcase the latest Dutch start-ups, their best practices and build
Per Bank, CEO of Loblaw Companies Limited, visited Mucci Farms in late April to look at greenhouse-grown strawberries first-hand. Since 2018, the Kingsville, Ontario farm has pioneered hydroponic techniques in commercial production of year-round strawberries.
“We had a wonderful day discussing our valued partnership, the greenhousegrown sector, and ways to increase access and awareness of fresh fruits and vegetables,” says Danny Mucci. “It’s clear that the
Loblaw team shares our passion for maximizing quality and delivering affordable produce to consumers across Canada. We’re excited about the future of this partnership!”
Simon Romano, vicepresident, fresh procurement and Justin Garibaldi, senior director, produce procurement, joined the farm visit as did Danni Peirce, executive vice-president and chief sourcing officer from Loblaw Companies Limited.
The Loblaw Homegrown Innovation Challenge, a joint
effort with the Weston Family Foundation, aims to find solutions for growing berries out-of-season, sustainably, and at scale in Canada. It’s a competition offering funding, networking, and mentorship opportunities to teams working on innovative food production methods. The challenge addresses the need for resilient and sustainable Canadian food systems in the face of climate change.
connections between incoming country delegations and the Dutch business community. Organized and supported by the Ministry of Agriculture, Nature and Food Quality, Dutch Enterprise Agency, Topsector Horticulture & Starting material, Municipality Westland, AVAG, World Horti Center, Dutch Greenhouse Delta and GreenTech.
Visitors can explore the
Innovation Zone on the show floor, featuring the Renewables Hub, Robotics & AI Lab, opportunities to connect with the latest start-ups, and a showcase of the nominees for the ‘GreenTech Innovation & Concept Awards 2025’.
More information at: www.greentech.nl/amsterdam/.
Source: GreenTech Amsterdam April 14, 2025 news release
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L-R: Joe Spano, Per Bank, Danny Mucci.
BITS AND BITES
Danforth Technology Company launches genome-editing startup
The Danforth Technology Company (DTC), based in St. Louis Missouri, has launched Spearhead Bio, to enhance the efficiency of crop genome engineering by harnessing the plant’s own natural DNA. Spearhead’s Transposase Assisted Homology Independent Targeted Insertion (TAHITI) technology allows the seamless integration of genes into both transgenic and non-transgenic crops.
“Our goal is to unlock the full potential of plant genetics using the tools nature already provides,” said Spearhead Bio founder and chief scientific officer Keith Slotkin, PhD. “By engineering the plant’s own genome-editing machinery, we’re creating a faster, cleaner, and more predictable path to crop improvement.” Slotkin is a Danforth Center principal investigator and the inventor of the TAHITI system.
DTC CEO Tom Laurita will serve as CEO of Spearhead Bio. “CRISPR gene
editing holds the promise to fundamentally change how we do crop breeding,” said Laurita. “It is a genome ‘scissors’, but to fulfill its potential it requires a genome ‘glue’ to efficiently and accurately insert incised genes into the genome. That ‘glue’ is the TAHITI system. I believe this may be the most impactful technology ever to have come out of the Danforth Center.”
Spearhead Bio’s Scientific Advisory Board is comprised of leading industry experts, including:
• Larry Gilbertson, PhD, former biotechnology leader at Monsanto and Bayer
• Jerry Hjelle, PhD, President, Hjelle Advisors
• Jon Lightner, PhD, MBA, former VP of Biotech at Pioneer Hi-Bred International Research leading to the formation of Spearhead Bio and the invention underlying the TAHITI technology was published in the June 26, 2024 issue of Nature.
“We are excited to use our TAHITI technology to generate the next generation of improved crops, with the traits that farmers want, but with improved speed to market and consumer acceptance,” added
AgriStability enrolment deadline extended to July 31, 2025
Learn more at www.spearheadbio.com
Source: Danforth Technology Company May 13, 2025 news release
Given the pressures and uncertainties facing the agricultural sector, federal, provincial and territorial governments have agreed to extend the AgriStability enrolment deadline from April 30, 2025, to July 31, 2025, for the 2025 program year.
AgriStability is a marginbased program designed to help producers manage large income declines. This extension gives producers additional time to consider their needs and manage the impact of challenges faced by many farm operations, such as production loss, increased costs and changing market conditions. Farmers experiencing losses are encouraged to apply for interim payments under AgriStability for more rapid support.
Producers have access to a comprehensive suite of business risk management (BRM) programs, including AgriStability, to help manage significant risks that threaten the viability of their farms and are beyond their capacity to manage. BRM programs are often the first line of support for producers facing disasters. Farmers are encouraged to make use of these programs to protect their farming operation and contribute to a more resilient Canadian agriculture sector.
For more information, please visit the AgriStability web page.
Source: Agriculture and Agri-Food Canada April 25, 2025 news release
U.S. specialty crop payments increased to $2.65 billion
First announced in December 2024, the Marketing Assistance for Specialty Crops (MASC) program authorized $2 billion in Commodity Credit Corporation funds to assist U.S. specialty crop growers with rising input costs and aid in the expansion of domestic markets. In January 2025, in response to stakeholder feedback and program demand, funding was increased to $2.65 billion.
The Specialty Crop Farm Bill Alliance (SCFBA) has responded to the U.S. Department of Agriculture’s announcement of the second round of payments.
“The USDA’s MASC program is an important step in providing urgently needed assistance to specialty crop growers who are confronting a host of unprecedented challenges. Rising input costs, limited access to labour, unfair trade practices, disruptions to foreign markets and natural disasters ranging from flood to drought all impede their global competitiveness.”
The SCFBA is co-chaired by Cathy Burns, CEO of the International Fresh Produce Association; Mike Joyner, president of the Florida Fruit & Vegetable Association; Dave Puglia, president and CEO of Western Growers; and Kam Quarles, CEO of the National Potato Council.
Source: Specialty Crop Farm Bill Alliance April 29, 2025 news release
Kenya to host 13th World Potato Congress in fall 20
The World Potato Congress (WPC) Inc. announces Kenya will be hosting the 2026 World Potato Congress in October/November 2026. This location change comes following an agreement reached between the Polish Potato Federation (PPF) and WPC to cancel the event scheduled for Gdansk, Poland in June of 2026.
In late March 2025, the WPC Board of Directors reviewed the formal request led by the National Potato Council (NPCK) of Kenya to have its initial bid reconsidered for a future Congress. “Initially, the 2026 Congress had been awarded to Kenya.” says president Dr. Peter VanderZaag “And it had been with great regret to announce in
May of 2024 that the WPC would need to step away to allow for Kenya to further develop contractual relationships in country.”
“Hosting a World Potato Congress comes with many important factors to be considered,” says VanderZaag.
“We are excited that the Kenya host committee was immediate and proactive in addressing the key areas to ensure a global success story for their country.”
The World Potato Congress aims to contribute to ending extreme poverty and improving food security around the globe. By hosting this event in Kenya, the Congress will spotlight the importance of potatoes as a vital food crop and its potential to
drive inclusive economic growth, particularly for youth and women in the sector.”
The key organizers of this event will include the National Potato Council of Kenya representing the potato industry, FreshCrop Limited representing the private sector with technical and organizational support from the International Potato Center (CIP).
“With the engagement of global potato industry and local potato organizations, backed by corporate sponsors, we have been able to obtain the logistical resources needed to pull off the event at the caliber expected by the WPC and its partners.” says Wachira Kaguongo, WPC international advisor and CEO of
As the Florida strawberry season concluded in late April, Harvest CROO announced that its automated harvest field trials have successfully demonstrated commercial viability. Having reached performance rates on par with human harvesting in a commercial picking operation, this achievement represents a major milestone for the company.
Harvest CROO was initially founded to alleviate labour shortages. The machine in its current iteration has unlocked worlds of new possibilities by converging AI machine learning, innovative food safety technology, and advanced breeding techniques.
“We are at the cutting edge of a new AI agricultural revolution and this technology is ready to scale,” said Gary Wishnatzki, co-founder and Wish Farms owner. “Strawberries are picked the same way they were over 100 years ago. Harvest CROO is primed to disrupt the multibillion-dollar U.S. strawberry market. The benefits are game-changing for strawberries, but its transferability to other specialty crops as well as other industries is very promising.”
Processing power experienced a major leap forward in just the past year. With the use of the latest generation of NVIDIA chips, the platform’s vision processing capability is now a staggering 200x more powerful. This exponential jump, bundled with Harvest CROO’s 13 patents, Artificial Intelligence, and advanced robotic technology has allowed the company to attain harvesting on par with humans.
Among other advantages, the machine employs deep data analytic elements that eliminate pathogens, increase yield, improve quality, and extend shelf life. This will ultimately make healthy produce more affordable and widely available to the public.
The machine and its technology are developed and manufactured in America. By onshoring this tech, the U.S. will benefit by having a self-sufficient labour force that will provide better, higher paying jobs at the farms. It will also greatly reduce growers’ dependence on guest workers, facilitating a food supply independent of foreign nations.
“We started as a strawberrypicking company, but now we have evolved into an AI machine-
learning and robotics-driven technology company that will enable the transformation of industries far beyond agriculture. The market potential is virtually limitless,” said Harvest CROO CEO Joe McGee. “Our proprietary tech has already demonstrated its effectiveness by picking the most complicated crop in agriculture. Now, everything else will just be an engineering problem.”
Harvest CROO is headquartered in Tampa, Florida.
Source: Harvest CROO April 24, 2025 news release
the National Potato Council of Kenya.
Source: World Potato Congress May 5, 2025 news release
Stepping into the spotlight by championing Ontario produce and the people behind it
A role that the Ontario Fruit & Vegetable Growers’ Association (OFVGA) has really begun to embrace over the last several years is proactive, public-facing communications about our industry. The goal is for government, media and the general public to have a better understanding of who we are and what we do – and why it is so vitally important to protect our ability to grow our own food.
We continue to actively shine a spotlight on seasonal and temporary foreign workers
through our More than a Migrant Worker initiative, as well as generally promote fruit and vegetable production in Ontario. Here are a few highlights of what OFVGA is working on.
News articles
We continue to provide articles and photos to the News Canada online news service, which is a great outlet for print and online publications to find stories for their readers. We currently have eight stories running on its portal, focusing on various topics related to local food production and buying local along with references to farmers and seasonal workers and the role they play in the fruits and vegetables on our plates. Our content has been striking a chord with publications, which is so great to see. All eight articles, for example, have been picked up by MSN, which is the news feed that shows up on Windows computers and has an estimated reach of 411,000 readers.
Coming up in June and again in the fall, we’ll be having news stories featured in the Ottawa Citizen as well focused on the Seasonal Agricultural Worker Program (SAWP).
Ads
LCBO’s Food and Drink Magazine: For the third year we have a full page advertisement in the spring edition of the LCBO’s Food and Drink Magazine, where we highlight the contributions of seasonal workers to the beverages in our glasses. This year’s ad features the tag line “Behind every glass of Ontario wine, there’s an incredible story” and photos of seasonal workers from our MTAMW campaign.
Spotify: We currently have a series of audio ads running on the Spotify network aimed at podcast listeners. The goal is to highlight the important role seasonal workers play in our food system through these short, approximately 15-second audio ads.
Cineplex theaters: From June 6 – to July 3, a series of short video clips featuring MTAMW will be running in select Cineplex theatres in southern Ontario.
Social media: We continue to post worker stories, blog posts and other updates on both the OFVGA and MTAMW websites as well as on our social media profiles on Facebook, Instagram and LinkedIn. These are complemented by digital ad placements and search engine optimization that makes sure our content shows up in user searches on Google.
Trade shows and presentations: We continue to give presentations to various audiences and organizations about MTAMW. Although we focus a lot on the general public, it’s also important that our own industry knows what we are working on. This spring, for example, we had a booth at the Canadian Produce Marketing Association annual conference and our communications advisor Ben
Murray participated in a panel discussion about the importance of public trust in our food system.
Political outreach: Following the recent provincial election which saw some new politicians coming to Queen’s Park for the first time, we took the opportunity to send a MTAMW update letter to all MPPs. Our goal: to introduce them to the initiative (if they’re not already familiar) and to offer opportunities for follow-up conversations. And now that the federal election is behind us, we plan to take the same approach with Ontario’s newly elected MPs in the near future. In the past, this type of outreach has resulted in many great meetings and introductions with several elected officials.
Shawn Brenn is a potato grower and chair of the Ontario Fruit & Vegetable Growers’ Association.
Two years ago, Jamaica appointed Pearnel Charles Jr as the minister of labour. He’s been a popular choice as he personally attends the send-off of some of his fellow citizens participating in the temporary foreign worker program. In late April he said, “This morning’s send-off underscores our strong bilateral cooperation with Canada and the high level of trust in the professionalism and productivity of our Jamaican workers.” Photo courtesy of The Gleaner.
OFVGA SECTION CHAIRS
SHAWN BRENN
New advocacy agenda puts producers and government at odds
Imagine being a policy maker in U.S. agriculture right now, trying to scope out an agenda that meets your members’ needs, rather than pander to President Donald Trump’s protectionist agenda. Maybe your interests and his merge at some point. But if they’re at odds, you’re on shaky ground.
That’s the dilemma facing groups such as the International Fresh Produce Association (IFPA). It touts itself as “the largest and most diverse international association serving the entire fresh produce and floral supply chain, and the only association to seamlessly integrate world-facing advocacy and industry-facing support.”
With that kind of responsibility, it can’t wait for the changing political landscape and i the implications for policy to be clearer.
This spring, the association released its 2025 fresh produce and floral public policy agenda, subtitled Charting the Course for Advocacy. It says this agenda is consistent with its commitment to foster industry growth, innovation and long-term success. These days, the strategic importance of advocacy can’t be stressed enough. Theoretically, U.S. growers should prosper under a wellness agenda like the Make America Healthy Again (MAHA) movement. But without advocacy for sound policy, that likelihood is a crap shoot.
The association has created an agenda that it says builds on past achievements and builds a stronger future. What that actually looks like is a document that touches on topics that will be familiar to growers on both sides of the border: labour, trade, nutrition and consumption, crop protection and production technology, food safety, supply chain resiliency, sustainability, taxes and the multi-billion-dollar Farm Bill. The latter doesn’t have a Canadian equivalent, but if and
when its latest incarnation is passed, it will have a huge impact on North America’s agri-food industry.
The big question is that out of all these imperatives, how to you rank priorities?
For the association, labour comes first. It claims to be “leading the charge” for H-2A visa program reform, to make it more affordable and accessible for all of its member growers seeking to use the program. This includes expanding the program to meet the needs of producers regardless of the seasonality of their production. It also wants to remove what it calls arbitrary caps on the H-2B visa program, to ensure access to non-skilled, non-agricultural workers vital to all parts of the fresh produce and floral supply chains.
Trade is priority number two. This is where the association bumps up against anything that impedes exports. For example, it acknowledges that Trump’s beloved tariffs can be a negotiating tool. However, it notes, the industry has experienced tariffs’ broad application disrupting supply chains, threatening market expansion, increasing consumer costs and placing unnecessary
strain on growers and producers.
As well, the association is standing up for science.
“IFPA believes that governments around the world should review trade restrictions to ensure adherence to risk-based scientific principles and to create more fair-trading relationships,” it says. “Fresh produce, specialty crops and florals are robustly traded across the North American market. Growing seasons and regions mean that a North American market serves U.S. consumers, and American consumers demand year-round access to a robust variety of fresh produce.”
The association will have its hands full. MAHA’s interpretation of “healthy” is riddled with questionable science
and political bias, particularly against modern production and crop protection products. MAHA claims some such products are poisoning America. Conversely, the association says access to biotechnology and well-regulated pesticides ensure the viability of modern agricultural production and a safe, reliable food supply. Can America have it both ways? The association has taken positions that don’t reflect the government’s approach on key points. Perhaps they’ll meet in the middle. But more likely, something will have to give.
Owen Roberts is a past-president of the International Federation of Agricultural Journalists and a communications instructor at the University of Illinois
OWEN ROBERTS
BITS & BITES
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COMING EVENTS 2025
June 2-8 Local Food Week, Ontario
June 7 Garlic Growers’ Association of Ontario Field Day, Furmanek Farms, Arthur, ON
June 10-12 GreenTech Conference, Amsterdam
June 14 Farm & Food Care’s Breakfast on the Farm, Hoenhorst Farms, Innerkip, ON
June 18 3rd Annual Ontario Potato Board Industry Social Golf Tournament, Hockley Valley Resort, Mono, ON
July 16-18 Potato Sustainability Alliance Summer Symposium, Charlottetown, PE
July 20-23 International Fruit Tree Association Summer Tour, DoubleTree by Hilton, London, Ontario
July 24 Gaia Consulting Field Day, Southridge Farm, Southport, MB
July 2025 Federal-Provincial-Territorial Agriculture Ministers’ Meeting, Winnipeg, MB
Aug 2 Food Day Canada
Fusarium in peppers remains a persistent challenge, impacting crop health and yield. As part of our ongoing research in collaboration with the Ontario Greenhouse Vegetable Growers, we’re offering free sample testing to Ontario pepper growers to better understand the prevalence of Fusarium and other microbial pathogens, helping to improve disease management strategies.
driving meaningful progress for the industry - submit your samples today.
The insights gathered from this project will provide practical tools and strategies for growers across the region. Join us in
For more details on getting involved with this task group, please email: innovation@sef.ca
Membership opens in June for Office of Grocery Sector Code of Conduct
The Office of Grocery Sector Code of Conduct (OGSCC) is advising businesses that they can begin joining the organization starting in June, coinciding with the launch of a new website and member portal. The dues structure has now been approved by the interim Board of Directors. However, nonmembership dues will be collected until January 2026, allowing members to join in 2025 without incurring any fees for the
remainder of the calendar year.
The dues structure for the OGSCC can be found here: https://canadacode.org/faq/ Active membership recruitment won’t start until the fall. Once all final governance documents, including the dispute resolution mechanism, are finalized, early membership will be available at the end of June 2025 for those who want to get involved right away.
By joining early, businesses
will:
• Be recognized as committed to the principles and provisions of the Canada Grocery Code
• Gain early access to educational resources as they become available, including FAQs and guidance materials
• Receive regular updates from the OGSCC on implementation progress, news, and tools to support Code alignment
Becoming a member of the OGSCC signals your organization’s commitment to fair dealing, transparency, and the effective implementation of the Code. When the interim board transitions to a permanent structure, only members in good standing will be eligible for board appointment, so don’t wait to get involved.
More information will be shared in the next newsletter about how to sign up. In the meantime, feel free to email: info@canadacode.org.
Source: The Office of Grocery Sector Code of Conduct May 13, 2025 newsletter
Aug 6 Nova Scotia Fruit Growers’ Association Summer Orchard Tour, eastern end of Annapolis Valley, NS
Aug 12-13 North American Strawberry Growers’ Association Summer Tour, Nova Scotia
Aug 13-15 US Apple Outlook, Chicago, IL
Aug 21 Ontario Potato Field Day, HJV Equipment, Alliston, ON
Aug 23 Breakfast on the Farm, co-hosted by Norfolk Agricultural Society and Apple Hill Lavender and Apple Farm, Windham Centre, ON
Aug 27 Grape Research Tailgate Tour, Niagara, ON
Sept 9-11 Canada’s Outdoor Farm Show, Woodstock, ON
Sept 18-20 Canadian Farm Writers Federation annual meeting, Winnipeg, MB
Sept 24 Ontario Produce Marketing Association Golf Tournament, Lionhead Golf and Country Club, Brampton, ON
Oct 8-9 Canadian Greenhouse Conference, Niagara Falls, ON
Oct 16-18 Global Produce & Floral Show, Anaheim, CA
Oct 28-29 Canadian Centre for Food Integrity Public Trust Symposium, Westin Toronto Airport Hotel, Toronto, ON
Nov 7-16 Royal Agricultural Winter Fair, Toronto, ON
Nov 18-20 Potato Growers of Alberta Annual General Meeting, Red Deer, AB
Nov 23-25 Advancing Women Conference East, Sheraton Fallsview, Niagara Falls, ON
Nov 27-30 Outstanding Young Farmers National Event, Toronto, ON 2026
Jan 6-8 Potato Expo, Dallas, Texas
Feb 4-6 Fruit Logistica, Berlin, Germany
Feb 8-11 International Fruit Tree Association Annual General Meeting, Fresco, CA
RETAIL
Take the farm to your customer
The requests for category managers and other employees in retail to visit suppliers never ends. People are proud of what they do, and they want their customers to see their operation. When I was working in retail, we could never get to all of the farms. We were managing hundreds of suppliers and almost everyone wanted us to visit. There is no doubt, it is valuable to see suppliers in action and understand their business better. Unfortunately, it is just not realistic to get to them all.
If you have invited your customers for a visit, but they tell you it probably will not happen, then take a different approach. Take the farm to them.
We all have the technology to make it happen
Now is the time when most fresh produce operations in Canada are at their best. Greenhouses are in operation all year, but outdoor farms are busiest during the spring, summer and fall. Take photos of different parts of your operation and if you can, add video too. The surroundings you work in every day are the norm to you. To a category manager sitting in an office, there is a lot to learn about how a farm works and what is happening out there.
You can attach photos and videos to any email or text. One consideration is to keep the file size reasonable. (size?) Often the security protocols will block emails with large attachments.
Encourage the different people who work in your operation to take photos too. They are often exposed to parts of the farm you do not see every week. They might also have some ideas of what is important to showcase that are different from your ideas. Always good to get a different perspective.
If your employees consent, include them in the images and videos. It is important for retailers to see the people who produce their products. This is also an opportunity for you to highlight some long-term employees who return to your operation every year. This is a sign of stability in your business that most retailers will appreciate.
Take a strategic approach
Pictures are great, but make sure they have a purpose. Review your last discussions with your customers and include photos to illustrate points you were trying to make or investments you have made in your business. Perhaps you installed new energy-efficient coolers to extend shelf life for your customers and consumers. Share pictures of the coolers being constructed and in operation.
Consider some of the changes or issues that might be coming in the near future. Use photos and videos to illustrate your arguments. There is always the possibility of a new pest or virus impacting your crop. If you are starting to see signs this year, show the impact and let them know this is an issue you have invested in controlling. Although you would like them to see it in person, a photo or video is the next best thing.
During your off-season meetings, your customer might have made a request of your business. You or your employees might have been against the proposal. If you did have to implement it and it worked out better than anticipated, let them know and use photos to reinforce the successful outcome. I can recall a grower being against the shift to re-useable plastic containers (RPCs). Once the employees started to work with them, they actually preferred the new packaging over the old style. Never hurts to let them know the change was beneficial.
Share the images over the growing season
People want brief communication. Share your photos over a period of time to keep the emails smaller and reinforce the progress you make over the season. If you try to send too much in one email or text, they probably will not look at all of the pictures and even if they do, they will not take it all in.
This also provides you a number of opportunities to communicate over the season. Plan the subjects. You know your business better than anyone. Include important topics such as sustainability or initiatives you are implementing to manage costs or keep high quality. You can make sustainability a subject for three to four emails through the season. Use photos to illustrate water management or reduced pesticide use.
If you produce private label, it helps to refer to the product as ‘their’ item. When retailers believe your approach is to produce ‘their’ product they see it as more of a partnership. You can share a photo with the caption ‘your product ABC after six weeks in the ground’.
Do not be disappointed if you do not get a response right away. Category managers receive hundreds of emails so yours might not be the first one they read. If they are interested in your business and continuing to learn, they will open it at some point.
If you know other people in the team such as assistant category managers, copy them
too. The more people you can connect with, the better. When you do see them in person for a meeting or at an industry event, bring up the photos. You should get the response you want and confirm that your work to take the farm to them through the season was worth the effort.
If you do a stellar job with photos and videos you might increase your chances of an in-person visit in the future.
Peter Chapman is a retail consultant, professional speaker and the author of A la Cart-a suppliers’ guide to retailer’s priorities. Peter is based in Halifax, N.S. where he is the principal at SKUFood. Peter works with producers and processors to help them get their products on the shelf and into the shopping cart.
Don’t expect a response
PETER CHAPMAN
Holland Marsh celery grower tags RPC crates for delivery to the grocer’s DC, demonstrating traceability from the field. Photo by Glenn Lowson
FOCUS: LOGISTICS AND TRANSPORT
The critical role of temperature documentation in produce shipping
In the fast-paced world of produce shipping, maintaining the cold chain and properly documenting temperature control from origin to destination are crucial to prevent disputes. A recent transportation case handled by the Fruit and Vegetable Dispute Resolution Corporation (DRC) highlights the importance of these practices.
A shipper sold blueberries to a buyer on a Free on Board (FOB) basis. The Bill of Lading (BoL) indicated the product was loaded at temperatures ranging from 32°F to 34°F, and the reefer to be set at 34°F in continuous mode.
Upon arrival, the blueberries were found to have warm pulp temperatures and to be in poor condition. A federal inspection was performed which corroborated the product failed to meet DRC Good Arrival Guidelines.
To evaluate the case, DRC’s Trading Assistance staff requested the following information: the BOL, loading checklist, loading pattern, the temperature recorder readout, reefer unit download, record of pulp temperatures upon arrival and the federal inspection report.
Here’s what was discovered:
1. BoL: The BoL indicated a required transit temperature of 33°F and the actual pulp temperature at loading was 34°F. It also showed the driver signed the BOL without any notations and no indication that the driver took pulp temperatures during or after loading.
2. Loading Checklist: A loading
checklist was provided by the driver with documented pulp temperatures between 32°F-34°F. This document was also signed by the driver.
3. Temperature Recorder Readout: This document indicated that the product was subject to warmer-than-desirable temperatures during transit.
4. Reefer Unit Download:
Although the reefer unit was set correctly, the readings between the Supply Air Column (SAT) and the Return Air Column (RAT) suggested the reefer unit was having problems maintaining the desired set temperature. The SAT readings ranged from 28°F to 38°F, while RAT readings
were consistently around 36°F. This discrepancy suggested that the reefer was acting properly, but it was not able to maintain the desired temperature. A factor that could have contributed to this situation was the Outside Ambient Temperature (AAT). During the first two days of transit, weather conditions reached temperatures above 100°F.
The acronym AAT in the context of vehicles and HVAC stands for Ambient Air Temperature. It refers to the temperature of the air outside the vehicle or building, typically measured by a sensor. This temperature is used by the vehicle’s computer to adjust engine performance, or by
HVAC systems to control the interior temperature. In aviation, the abbreviation for outside air temperature is often OAT.”
5. Federal Inspection: The inspection was promptly conducted with a report indicating the pulp temperatures were above normal, and indicating the blueberries were received in poor condition with defects associated with product exposed to warmer than desired temperatures. It also reported the air-chute was intact.
While there was an argument by the carrier that the product was loaded warm, no evidence was provided to that effect. The DRC determined that this was most likely a transportation claim
based on the evidence showing the carrier was not able to maintain the desired set temperature during transit. This case highlights the importance of keeping proper temperature records at shipping point, during transit, and upon arrival. Shippers, carriers and receivers all have responsibility for maintaining proper cold chain from origin to destination. Clear communication and diligent record-keeping can prevent disputes and protect the integrity of all parties involved, ultimately leading to better outcomes.
Source: Fruit & Vegetable Dispute Resolution Corporation
Uptick in costs of global transport by
sea
As of May 15, the Drewry WCI composite index increased 8% to $2,233 per 40ft container, 78% below the previous pandemic peak of $10,377 in September 2021. However, the index was 57% higher than the average $1,420 in 2019 (pre-pandemic).
Source: Drewry World Container Index, May 15, 2025
Late blight lessons
DENNIS VAN DYK
Over the last two growing seasons, Ontario potato growers have faced abnormally high late blight pressure. A wet second half to 2023 and a wet May/June of 2024 resulted in ideal late blight conditions requiring significant investments in crop protection to save the crop.
In Ontario, the strain of Phytophthora infestans, the causal agent of late blight, identified from outbreaks the last two years was US-23. This strain is highly aggressive on tomato fruit and foliage and highly aggressive on potato tubers, but generally thought to be less aggressive on potato foliage.
For growers, a positive characteristic of US-23 is that it is susceptible to Ridomil. This fungicide remains an important tool for late blight because of its effectiveness and ability to move systemically to protect new growth. This highlights the need for the first positive late blight identification of the season to be sent to the lab for proper strain ID. There are now a few FREE testing options to send samples to so reach out to the OMAFA potato or tomato specialist if late blight is suspected.
The silver lining from back-toback years of late blight is you can start to learn some important lessons of what works well (and what doesn’t). With fungicides, preventative applications are critical, meaning before you see symptoms. Of all the products used preventatively, Orondis Ultra (group 40+49) remained the top pick for the highest efficacy and was a key piece of successful spray programs. Programs that applied Orondis Ultra when disease risk was high but symptoms not yet in the field had the best results.
There is also a number of good late blight products from various FRAC groups which can
be rotated in including Revus (40), Tanos (27+11), Gavel (22+M), Ranman (21), Allegro (29), Zampro (40+45) and others provided they are applied preventatively. The single-site products should be mixed with multi-site, low-resistance risk products such as captan, mancozeb and chlorothalonil.
One of the more interesting findings was that the most successful foliar programs included phosphorous acid (P-acid) products such as Phostrol/Confine Extra/Rampart applied early and often. These products work in two ways: one is directly on late blight by suppressing germination and growth but the other way is to activate the plant’s natural defense response.
If late blight was already present in the field, Ontario growers successfully used Curzate (27) + Manzate Pro-stick/Dithane Rainshield (M). Another successful option on active infection was Ridomil (4) + Bravo ZN (M) since US-23 was susceptible.
Since the predominant late blight strain US-23 is aggressive on potato tubers, it is important to reduce infection going into storage. High rates of copper products at top-killing along with P-acid products applied postharvest resulted in very little late blight tuber rot.
Figures 1, 2, 3 and 4 show some examples of what late blight symptoms look like in potatoes. Note the brown lesions which cross over leaf veins surrounded by a pale green to yellow halo. White fuzzy sporulation can often be found on the underside of the leaves.
Any part of the potato plant can be infected by late blight so you can see infection from the leaves and stem all the way down to the tubers. If you are growing potatoes and are not completely confident in what late blight looks like, check out the late blight entry on Ontario CropIPM.
There are plenty of photos and information on what to look for and how to manage late blight.
You can also find links there to the Ontario Crop Protection Hub to find which products are registered for late blight and other potato diseases and quickly view all the relevant label information.
After many years of little to no late blight in the province, backto-back seasons have spotlighted how devastating and costly this disease can be. There will be two projects for 2025 to assist growers in being prepared and effectively time their fungicide applications. The first is a disease-risk forecasting dashboard which will display relative risk of late blight based on favourable weather conditions. The second will be a spore trapping network using Rotorod spore traps to trap and identify airborne sporangia. This will provide an early warning sign to growers that late blight inoculum is present.
Using these two resources should help inform growers about the best time to apply their expensive fungicides specific to late blight to maximize their effectiveness. More details and updates on these projects can be found on the OnVegetables blog throughout the growing season so make sure you are subscribed.
Dennis Van Dyk is vegetable crop specialist, Ontario Ministry of Agriculture, Food and Agribusiness.
Figure 1. Late blight lesion with irregular brown lesions
Figure 2. The underside of the leaf in Figure 1 showing the white fuzzy sporulation.
Figure 3. Late blight infecting the leaf and stem
Figure 4. The growing point of the plant traps moisture and provides ideal conditions for late blight to infect.
Testing different fertility treatments on Ontario-grown hazelnuts
TEJENDRA CHAPAGAIN
Commercial hazelnut (Corylus avellana L.) production is relatively new to Ontario. The hazelnut industry in the province traces its roots back to 2007 when a hazelnut processing plant was established in the city of Brantford and now imports about 14,000 tonnes of shelled hazelnuts annually, stimulating interest in growing hazelnuts by Ontario farmers. There were about only 500 acres of hazelnut trees in the province in 2017 which was expected to expand to 25,000 acres of hazelnut trees by 2027.
Despite the increasing numbers of hazelnut growers entering the industry and the number of acres coming into full production capacity, there are no Ontario-specific fertility recommendations for this crop. `
Growers currently rely on a mix of Ontario tree fruit guidelines and recommendations from Oregon, which differs significantly in soil and climate, as well as recommendations from private soil testing labs. While this has been successful for some who have had previous tree crop experience, it has caused others to lose seedlings to overfertilization. It was, therefore, essential to develop Ontariospecific fertility recommendations as more acres are coming into full production in the next few years.
A three-year trial was conducted in four orchards across southwestern Ontario for three growing seasons from 2022 to 2024 to look at how different fertility treatment regimes impact hazelnut growth and yield.
Yamhill, one of the commercial varieties of European hazelnuts, was chosen for its relative ability to resist Eastern Filbert Blight (EFB), a devastating disease caused by the fungus Anisogramma anomala. This variety is also known for its relative cold hardiness along with attractive, compact growth habit, and good crops of delicious nuts.
The trials consisted of two components: 1) Four pilot demonstrations to compare fertilized plots (e.g., Ontario’s guidelines for established tree fruits) with orchard-specific grower’s management; and 2) One fully replicated experiment with four treatment regimes: a) Ontario’s guidelines for established tree fruits, b) Modified Oregon’s guidelines for hazelnuts, c) Grower’s management, and d) Control (with no external fertilizers). Modified Oregon treatment refers to the modified version of Oregon’s guidelines by adapting phosphorus guidelines from Ontario.
Location-specific soil and tissue analysis were conducted according to OMAFA’s guidelines to determine the amount of primary nutrients (e.g., NPK) to apply to each orchard in fertilized treatments. Nitrogen was supplied as ammonium sulphate (21-0-0, AS), phosphorus through mono-ammonium phosphate (1152-0, MAP), and potash was primarily supplied through sulphate of potash/potassium sulphate (0-051, SOP). Required amount of these fertilizers was calculated, mixed, and banded around each tree under the drip line: 45cm away from the trunk in mid-May.
Hazelnut yields and economic
returns varied with location, tree age, and market price of hazelnuts; however, fertilized treatment (e.g., Ontario’s guidelines for established tree fruits) outperformed the grower’s management by up to 75 per cent with net economic returns of $18-$44 per tree. In the orchard where all four fertility treatments were compared, yields and economic returns from modified Oregon treatment and Ontario recommendation were not statistically different. However, they outperformed grower’s management by 44 and 42 per cent, respectively. Modified Oregon and Ontario treatment yielded ~7.0 pound (lb) per tree with a net economic return of $27 per tree during the third year of study, while grower’s management and control treatments yielded 4.8 and 4.0 lbs per tree with net economic returns of $19 and $16 per tree, respectively. Also, fertilized treatments showed higher levels of residual nutrients of N, P and K in the soil and the leaf tissues.
The project results indicated that Ontario’s fertility guidelines for established tree fruits can be used for commercial hazelnut production on mineral soils in Ontario. Also, testing soils every three years or plant tissues every year could help match applied nutrients more closely with plant demand, thereby enhancing economical and ecological sustainability because spending a few dollars in testing soils every three years or plant tissues every year could return thousands from established hazelnut orchards while enhancing ecological sustainability.
Adoption of an integrated approach such as improving soil organic matter, applying N in two or more small doses or in slow-release forms, or by fertigation, and foliar applications are a few other options to apply nutrients on European hazelnuts.
Tejendra Chapagain, PhD, PAg, is soil fertility specialist, horticulture, Ontario Ministry of Agriculture, Food and Agribusiness.
Trenching around the hazelnut tree is required for proper placement of fertilizer. The fertilizer trial is marked in this hazelnut orchard.
Developing narrow band or concentrated strip 45 cm away from the trunk in mid-May.
Placing fertilizers in narrow zone/band.
Covering fertilizer band with the soil.
Canada’s Food System campaign launches
Canada’s Food System: Our Food. Our Future Campaign is an initiative that celebrates one of the country’s greatest strengths: the people, partnerships, and progress that make our food system a global leader.
In a time of domestic economic strengthening, global trade disruptions, and climate pressure, this initiative is making a bold case for rethinking how Canadians see the food system— not simply as infrastructure, but as a foundational pillar of the country’s future.
“The initiative reminds Canadians that the food system supports more than two million Canadian jobs, contributes more than $140 billion to the national GDP, and ranks as the fifth largest exporter of agriculture and agri-food products globally,” said Keith Currie, president of the Canadian Federation of Agriculture, “With export targets
reaching $75 billion by 2025, the sector plays a vital role in driving growth, securing trade, and strengthening Canada’s global economic standing.”
“Canada’s food system is more than the sum of its parts—it’s a national strength that cuts across geography, language, and economy,” said Jean-Marc Ruest, senior vice-president, Corporate Affairs and General Counsel at Richardson International, “It serves as a sector that is critical to our growth and economic prosperity and also acts as a unifying force from coast to coast to coast.”
At the heart of the initiative is the Canada’s Food System pledge, a simple but powerful way for Canadians to voice their support for the food system and for the people who grow, raise, catch, make, and move our food every day. It is a message of pride, shared values, and national
unity.
Canada’s Food System is a national, sector-wide initiative supported by the Canadian Centre for Food Integrity in
collaboration with partners across the sector to build public trust and understanding across the food system. To sign the pledge and learn
Grape Growers of Ontario grateful for sector supports
In announcing its 2025 budget on May 15, the Government of Ontario included the following supports for grape growers and wineries across Ontario.
Supporting Ontario grape
farmers and wineries by introducing the Ontario Grape Support Program to provide $175
million over five years with a program that incentivizes the use of Ontario-grown grapes while also expanding the VQA Wine Support Program with additional investments that result in total program funding of $420 million over five years.
Implementing tax and LCBO mark-up reductions of approximately $100 million in 2025-26 and $155 million in 2026-27 as part of the first phase of actions related to the review of alcohol taxes, mark-ups and fees.
Grape Growers of Ontario chair, Matthias Oppenlaender promised more details on the announcement and program rollout as they become available.
“Grape Growers of Ontario thanks Premier Doug Ford for his ongoing support of our industry through the new grape purchasing support program,” stated Oppenlaender. “Today’s announcement demonstrates our
Source: Canadian Centre for Food Integrity May 15, 2025 news release
government’s commitment to grape-growing families in Ontario, and future sustainability of our sector across the province. We appreciate the government’s commitment to Ontario’s grape growers.”
Source: Grape Growers of Ontario May 15, 2025 statement
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Drone applications should be taking off soon
January 2024’s crop protection column discussed how aerial drones were not yet approved for the application of crop protection products in agriculture. Spoiler alert – this has not changed as of May 2025.
However, it has not stopped a growing level of interest among farmers in using the technology. Our understanding of drone applications has also advanced considerably in the past 18 months. Crop protection products should start being authorized for drone application in the near future in Canada. So what’s changed?
For the last number of years, the Pest Management Regulatory Agency (PMRA) has maintained that application of crop protection products by drones represents new technology for aerial application and existing data and models based on conventional fixed-wing or rotary aircraft may not apply. The PMRA’s position is that the use of crop protection products with drones required specific assessments to understand aspects such as occupational exposure, crop residues, efficacy, and drift potential. The outcome of these are now becoming clearer.
Environmental risk assessments are a core part of the review framework for PMRA. This includes data on the nontarget effects of products and where they may end up, such as the spray drift potential from applications. The latter is the only part of the environmental assessment where drones may be different than other foliar application methods using the same products. An international research collaboration has now determined that spray drift from drones is smaller and more
similar to ground application equipment than other conventional aerial applications, which have larger spray drift potential.
The PMRA will now substitute a conventional helicopter drift model until a drone specific model is developed – which is conservative as it remains an overestimate of potential drift.
The two areas of interest on the human health side that PMRA has been investigating include the level of residues remaining in the crop after application and occupational exposures by workers using drones. For the first component, PMRA enlisted the help of Agriculture and Agri-Food Canada’s Pest Management Centre, which also is responsible for the minor use program familiar to fruit and vegetable growers.
Four trials were done with both drones and conventional ground-based airblast or field sprayers in broccoli, peas, grapes, and apples using crop protection products registered on the crop. In each case, crop residues following application from droneapplied products were less than or equal to than those from the conventional ground application equipment. Based on this study, it is expected existing residue data from ground applications – which is commonly developed during registration – will fully substitute the need for any drone specific data.
On the occupational exposure side, this includes information about workers handling drones during application and the mixing and loading of products. While drone-specific data on these items would be ideal and is under development, PMRA has been willing to substitute existing occupational exposure data from other application types. Further work is happening to confirm occupational exposure information this year.
Aside from PMRA, there has also been a limiting element at Transport Canada regarding flying drones over 25 kg in gross weight. As mentioned in the previous column, this required advance permission by requesting a Special Flight Operations Certificate (SFOC) in addition to the drone pilot certificate requirements. Finalized amendments to the Canadian Aviation Regulations have lifted
It’s time clear and practical drone spraying regulations are finalized in Canada. We know enough to get some rules in place to start allowing this practice more broadly. “
this additional requirement as of November 2025 for drones under 150 kg in gross weight. Drones operating between 25 kg and 150 kg gross weight will now only require the Advanced Operations Pilot Certificate, easing regulations in this size range.
This becomes important when considering the trend in spray drone development over the past few years. Larger, heavier spray drones with higher capacity seems to be the clear trend in the industry now and this additional flexibility will help accommodate the bulk of the commercially available drones at this point. There are also some far larger spray drones being developed, but they would remain in the SFOC category currently.
A lot has changed since the last column on drone applications in January 2024. The first nonbiological product has been approved by PMRA for drone application – Garlon XRT, a conventional herbicide used for
vegetation control in non-crop areas. This joins the other biological products that are already registered for drone application by PMRA for mosquito control.
Compared to the United States, Canada is a long way behind on implementation. The U.S. Environmental Protection Agency has taken a stance on drone application of products and has cleared them for use provided the specific product already carries an aerial application label with conventional aircraft. This was something EPA staff mentioned they were proud of at last fall’s North American North American Trilateral Technical Working Group on Pesticides.
American growers are already successfully making drone applications with some of the same products available in Canada. The sky is not falling. Drones are providing a costeffective application method and the ability to apply in conditions
not suitable for other application equipment. There are many very promising comparisons showing drone-applied products can provide effective results.
The pieces are falling in place to finalize approval for drone application in Canada. We understand the environmental risks, have a good deal of information on the human health considerations, a pilot certification program that covers the typical size classes of spray drones and several years of commercial implementation south of the border. It’s time clear and practical drone spraying regulations are finalized in Canada. We know enough to get some rules in place to start allowing this practice more broadly.
Chris Duyvelshoff is crop protection advisor, Ontario Fruit and Vegetable Growers’ Association.
CHRIS DUYVELSHOFF
CROP PROTECTION
Ridomil Gold 480 SL fungicide label expansion includes grapes
With the restriction on mancozeb in grape to one prebloom application, use of Ridomil Gold-MZ was also restricted and use plummeted so the product was discontinued writes Wendy McFaddenSmith, tender fruit and grape IPM specialist, OMAFA.
The Pest Management Regulatory Agency (PMRA) has resurrected this very useful tool for grape with the approval of Ridomil Gold. This systemic fungicide is the gold standard for downy mildew control in grapes. It has post-infection and protectant activity and translocates to newly developing leaves and to fruit. The downside is that it is very prone to rapid resistance development. It is limited to one application per season, either pre- or post-bloom, and should be used before
infection rather than as an eradicant to further reduce the risk of resistance. The label states RIDOMIL GOLD 480SL must be applied in a tank mix that includes a non-Group 4 fungicide with efficacy against downy mildew. This is critical to prevent resistance. Copper fungicides would be a great tank mix partner. Syngenta is currently testing some tank mixes for compatibility.
Note: the preharvest interval is 50 days so make sure you use the product early enough in the season.
Source: ONFruit May 15, 2025 newsletter
Be on the lookout for invasive pests
The Canadian Food Inspection Agency (CFIA) marked May 12, International Day of Plant Health, as an occasion to remind the public of their role in safeguarding agriculture, forests, and the environment in Canada.
The CFIA is asking the public not to move firewood, and to report any sightings of invasive species. The extensive list of insect pests includes quarantine or regulated non-quarantine pests. Regulated pests may already be established in specific areas of Canada. Contact the CFIA if a pest is found in an area where it is not known to occur.
• Apple maggot – Rhagoletis pomonella
• Flighted spongy moth complex –Lymantria albescens, Lymantria umbrosa, Lymantria postalba, Lymantria dispar japonica and Lymantria dispar asiatica (previously known as the AGM moth)
• Asian longhorned beetle – Anoplophora glabripennis
• European spruce longhorn beetle –Tetropium castaneum
• Grape phylloxera – Daktulosphaira vitifoliae or Viteus vitifoliae
• Hemlock woolly adelgid – Adelges tsugae
• Japanese beetle – Popillia japonica
• Khapra beetle – Trogoderma granarium
• Light brown apple moth – Epiphyas postvittana
• Nun moth – Lymantria monacha
• Oriental fruit moth – Grapholita molesta
• Red-necked longhorn beetle – Aromia bungii
• Rosy gypsy moth – Lymantria mathura
• Sirex wasp – Sirex noctilio
• Spongy moth – Lymantria dispar dispar (previously known as the EGM or LDD moth)
• Spotted lanternfly – Lycorma delicatula
• Tomato leafminer – Tuta absoluta
The threat of spotted lanternfly, for example, has received a lot of attention in recent years. To date, there is no evidence of an established population in Canada. CFIA reports the latest in a chart as of November 28, 2024.
Understand the types of observations
A sighting could result in a confirmed interception, detection or established population.
Sighting
Reports of spotted lanternfly in Canada
Bugwood.org
that the CFIA is aware of, including those made on public reporting sites (for example, iNaturalist Canada, Facebook, etc.). CFIA has followed up on these, and could not confirm the report, as no SLF specimen was found.
Interception
Live spotted lanternfly, confirmed by the CFIA, in contained situations (e.g. warehouse) with no evidence of release to the Canadian environment; and/or dead spotted lanternfly, confirmed by the CFIA.
Detection
Live spotted lanternfly, confirmed by the
CFIA, in the Canadian environment.
Established population
Evidence of a reproducing population in the Canadian environment, confirmed by the CFIA.
For more information, inspection.canada.ca/en/plant-health/ invasive-species
Source: Canadian Food Inspection Agency, May 7, 2025 news release
Delegate insecticide label expanded to help manage cherry fruitworm on cherries
JOSH MOSIONDZ
The Pest Management Regulatory Agency (PMRA) recently approved several minor use label expansion registrations for Delegate insecticide for control of cherry fruitworm on cherries in Canada. Delegate insecticide was already labeled for management of insects on a wide range of crops in Canada. This minor use proposal was submitted by the British Columbia Ministry of Agriculture and Food,
BCMAF, as a result of minor use priorities established by growers and extension personnel.
The following is provided as an abbreviated, general outline only. Users should be making insect management decisions within a robust integrated insect management program and should consult the complete label before using Delegate insecticide.
Follow all other precautions, restrictions, and directions for use on the Delegate insecticide label carefully.
For a copy of the new minor use label contact your local crops specialist, local regional supply outlet, or visit the PMRA label site www.hc-sc.gc.ca/ cps-spc/pest/registrant-titulaire/ tools-outils/label-etiq-eng.php
Josh Mosiondz is minor use coordinator, OMAFA.
Check for egg masses on trees and items stored outside. Left: unhatched egg mass. Right: mass with some eggs hatched. Ohotos by Emelie Swackhamer, Penn State University. Bugwood.org (left) and Kenneth R. Law, USDA APHIS PPQ,
